Tribute To Peyton Manning And 52 Of His Friends

  • Monday, February 8, 2016

A wise king once said, "Two are better than one for if one falls down his friend will help him up...though one may be overpowered two can defend themselves...a cord of three strands is not quickly broken" (Eccl. 4:9-12). 

As I watched Peyton Manning for probably the last time, I couldn't help but think of these verses in Ecclesiastes. Peyton has had an incredible career that I have followed since his days at the University of Tennessee. Even as an 18-year-old kid out of high school, his poise, his character, his integrity, and his humor has always been evident in the way he handles himself.

He came into the NFL as a #2 draft pick to the Indianapolis Colts. Peyton quickly learned that the NFL was a different animal. He studied the game, he persevered through adversity, he experienced defeat, he celebrated victories. He was not concerned with his statistics. He was always about team. I don't know how many comeback victories he orchestrated in his illustrious career, but there were a few. We were all there glued to our televisions watching in awe at at his mastery of the game of football. Amazingly, through it all, he kept us head up, his priorities in focus, his love for his faith, his family, football and his team.He has quietly helped those in need without any expectation of anything in return. The legend speaks for itself. 

This year he was not the same Peyton we have cheered for the last 17 years. Injuries taking a toll, missed starts, more interceptions than touchdown passes. But he kept on training, he kept on studying, he kept on trying to get better for the chance to help the team one more time. And then it happened, things weren't going well in the San Diego game and Peyton got the call. He came into the game and provided a spark that led the team to victory and the #1 seed in the AFC. And the team rallied around Peyton. 

The Denver Broncos rallied around their leader. They worked hard, they focused, they wanted to win, but they wanted to win one more for Peyton. When things weren't going well, CJ Anderson ran a little harder. When they couldn't convert a 3rd down, the defense got a little faster. When the game was on the line Von Miller got a little meaner. When the field needed flipped, Colquitt punted a little longer. The team lifted up their leader. After 17 years of Peyton carrying the team, it is only fitting that in the final three games of his career the Broncos carried Peyton. 

King Solomon was a wise man. He knew that in life it is better to have a friend. In this instance, Peyton Manning had 52 friends. A team of brothers that saw their leader bruised and battered, and carried him to a victory in Superbowl 50. Sidenote: the third strand is God himself. Peyton said I need to thank the man upstairs. Does God care who wins a football game? I don't think so. I think he gives us abilities and talents to use for His glory. Peyton has honored God and his family his whole career. I think last night God said "thank you!" 

So this morning, I just want to thank the Denver Broncos for loving and respecting their quarterback. For believing in him and giving that 110 percent to be a part of history. You guys rock. You truly gave a team effort. Savor the moment. Celebrate with your families. Take a vacation. Enjoy the journey...for two are better than one, or in this case 53 are #1. 

Lori Atchley
Hixson

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